Knowledge base · 9 articles
Citizenship
A foreigner acquires Ukrainian citizenship mainly through naturalization: after several years of residence on a permit, language knowledge, lawful income and passing an exam. Some grounds (marriage, origin, outstanding merit) have simplified conditions.
Section updated: 18 October 2026
Main guide · updated 18 October 2026How can a foreigner get Ukrainian citizenship?The Law "On Citizenship of Ukraine" No. 2235-III offers several routes to Ukrainian citizenship. Most foreigners qualify through territorial origin or through naturalization after five years of residence on an immigration permit. Spouses of citizens, servicemen and foreign Ukrainians get concessions, and exams in the language, history and Constitution are mandatory.Read the guide
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When does a child get Ukrainian citizenship by birth?6 min read · 18 October 2026Can you get Ukrainian citizenship through marriage?7 min read · 18 October 2026What are the conditions for Ukrainian citizenship by naturalization?8 min read · 18 October 2026Which exams do you need to pass for Ukrainian citizenship?7 min read · 18 October 2026How can a foreigner serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine get Ukrainian citizenship?7 min read · 18 October 2026How do you get Ukrainian citizenship by territorial origin?7 min read · 18 October 2026What documents do you need for Ukrainian citizenship?7 min read · 18 October 2026Is dual citizenship allowed in Ukraine?8 min read · 18 October 2026
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Browse the knowledge baseThree stages of legal status in Ukraine — compared by key rights.
Temporary permit, PRP or citizenship: what to choose
Validity
- Temporary permit
- 1-2 years, by ground
- Permanent (PRP)
- 10 years, then exchange
- Citizenship
- indefinite
Right to work
- Temporary permit
- permit required (exemptions exist)
- Permanent (PRP)
- no permit needed
- Citizenship
- no restrictions
Number of entries
- Temporary permit
- unlimited
- Permanent (PRP)
- unlimited
- Citizenship
- unlimited
Typical ground
- Temporary permit
- work, study, marriage
- Permanent (PRP)
- immigration permit: quota, $100k or family
- Citizenship
- naturalization 5 yrs, origin or marriage
Living abroad
- Temporary permit
- limited
- Permanent (PRP)
- free
- Citizenship
- free
Next step
- Temporary permit
- move to PRP
- Permanent (PRP)
- apply for citizenship
- Citizenship
- —
| Criterion | Temporary permit | Permanent (PRP) | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Validity | 1-2 years, by ground | 10 years, then exchange | indefinite |
| Right to work | permit required (exemptions exist) | no permit needed | no restrictions |
| Number of entries | unlimited | unlimited | unlimited |
| Typical ground | work, study, marriage | immigration permit: quota, $100k or family | naturalization 5 yrs, origin or marriage |
| Living abroad | limited | free | free |
| Next step | move to PRP | apply for citizenship | — |
Exact state fees and timelines depend on the ground — check the service page or ask a lawyer. Figures are general; status is determined individually.
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Residence permit, done for you
From choosing the legal ground to the issued card: fixed price, case status online.